Guyana Times - Wednesday, June 5, 2024.pdf

Commission fosters human interactions with animals

Improving efficiency at GuySuCo a “top priority” – new CEO

CXC reverses decision to

suspend

TVET subjects from syllabus

…“new-generation” tech & science to be integrated into regional school system

2 US citizens among 3 intercepted with US$560,000 in gold at CJIA

Gunmen attack, rob Blairmont businessman and family

“Do not sell your leased land” – President Ali

Brazil should mirror speed with which Guyana began its exploration –Alexandre Silveira …clarifies statement on Equatorial Margin

Lethem resident gets 3 years, fined $450K for narco-trafficking

Modi’s BJP loses majority in India election shock, needs allies for Govt

Essequibo Coast bus driver shot, robbed

CXC reverses decision to suspend

TVET

The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) on Tuesday announced that it will not proceed with the suspension of four examination subjects following a wave of public concern and discussions with regional education ministers.

The subjects initially considered for suspension were agricultural science (double award), mechanical engineering technology (CSEC), green engineering, and electrical and electronic engineering (CAPE).

The decision to revisit the potential suspension came after a meeting with Education Ministers from the 16 participating coun-

subjects from syllabus

tech & science to be integrated into regional school system

tries, including Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and

the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Turks and Caicos Islands.

During the meeting, strong objections were raised, particularly by Guyana’s Education Minister Priya Manickchand, who high-

lighted the critical importance of these subjects to the rapid growth in sectors such as oil and agriculture in Guyana.

Following the engagement with regional education minister on Tuesday, CXC held a virtual press conference to announce its decision.

CXC Registrar and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Wayne Wesley, disclosed that the body’s previous decision to suspend the four subjects was as a result of a performance study, which presented figures signaling a downward trend in registration numbers for exams.

According to the study, which he said spans the years 2017 to 2023, roughly 4500 students across the Caribbean register for the electrical and electronic engineering (CAPE) examination annually and below 2400 register for Mechanical Engineering Technology (CSEC). Registration for the remaining subjects is below these numbers.

Additionally, it was revealed that half of the region’s territories have not registered students for any of the subjects in the last five years.

Among the reasons for this trend is the access to updated technical equipment, lack of practical experience for students due to the inadequacy of the facilities, lack of qualified teaching professionals to administer the broad syllabus and lack of human capital to provide support for areas such as welding, plumbing and electrical installation.

It was noted at the time, that if the subjects were removed, students taking the 2024 and 2025 examinations would be affected.

However, the CXC registrar said given the importance of the subjects, regional education ministers have recommitted to investments in education to ensure those subjects are better supported.

He added that the body is committed to maintaining a greater line of communication with the region to prevent the reoccurrence of premature announcements.

“The governments of the region would have articulated a plan to drive an economy that is based on climate change resilience, agriculture, food security, as well as our environmental projection given what we are prone to in the region for disasters. And so, with that commitment from governments across the region, coupled with and marketing of those subjects to students should drive greater demand of course within our school system,” Dr Wesley said.

New subjects

Meanwhile, a menu of new generation Science and Technology programmes will be rolled out in the regional school system soon and the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) said it will foster partnerships to build demand for the newly added programmes.

Among the subjects are Entrepreneurship, performing arts, physical education and sport, tourism, animation and game design, logistics and supply chain operations, digital media and financial services. All at the level of CAPE.

“Some are not yet at the desired demand; Governments will work with CXC in a partnership in building demand for these new

programmes to enable their cost viability. Accordingly, today’s deliberations with the Ministers of Education reinforce the need for a collective regional marketing thrust to promote the priority subject areas in STEM education and climate smart agriculture, which are considered critical for the economic growth and sustainable development of the region,” the CEO added.

Guyana’s objection

Last week, Guyana's Education Minister Priya Manickchand, expressed strong opposition to the Caribbean Examinations Council's (CXC) unofficial decision to remove several technical and vocational subjects from its syllabus.

At the time, Minister Manickchand emphasised that Guyana's government does not support the removal of these subjects, as they are crucial for the country's rapid growth, particularly in the oil, gas, and agriculture sectors.

Further, she highlighted that sustainable food investments and skills development are vital for the nation's future, and dropping these subjects would negatively impact students' opportunities and the local economy.

Manickchand had made it clear that, were CXC to discontinue these subjects, Guyana would have been forced to find other bodies who could test and certify the subjects. (G1)

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

CXC Registrar and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Wayne Wesley during the virtual press conference

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, June 5 –03:00h-04:30h and Thursday, June 6 –03:30h-05:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, June 5 –15:55h-17:25h and Thursday, June 6 – 16:45h-18:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected during the day and at night, with sunshine in the late afternoon. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 15:00h reaching a maximum height of 2.54 metres.

Low Tide: 08:32h and 20:46h reaching minimum heights of 0.55 metre and 0.69 metre.

Improving efficiency at GuySuCo a “top priority” – new CEO

Newly-appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), Paul Cheong has identified improving efficiency at the State-run company as one of his top priorities now that he has officially assumed the job.

Cheong assumed the mantle of CEO of the State-run company last month. In an interview with Guyana Times, Cheong, who formerly served as Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), spoke about his priorities at the sugar company. One such priority is improving efficiency and reducing wastage of cane in the production process.

“We have to increase the yield, and we have to also reduce the amount of cane it takes to make a tonne of sugar. So, improve efficiency. So, those are some things we’re working on. We’ve got to motivate the staff. Everyone is part of the organisation and we need a highly-motivated staff.”

Meanwhile, Cheong explained that he was still settling into his role at the company, but given his background in agriculture, he was quite familiar with the sugar cane industry. In this regard, the CEO was confident that he could tackle existing challenges at GuySuCo.

“I’ve been involved in cane, planting cane

and so on, from a (young age) … I know the industry well. I’m passionate about sugar. Getting the company profitable, because a lot of families and communities depend on GuySuCo,” he noted.

With respect to external assistance to the State-run company, including from countries such as Guatemala and India, the CEO said this was still being explored. According to Cheong, “we’re exploring places we can get technical assistance. That is still in the exploratory stage.”

In one of his first acts as CEO, Cheong had met with specialists from Cuba at Blairmont Estate last Friday. This was with the view of exploring areas of collaboration with Cuba, to improve the estate.

“GuySuCo is thrilled to welcome specialised talent on board to enhance our factory and field operations. This initiative is geared towards fortifying our capabilities and driving excellence as we propel GuySuCo forward,” the sugar company had said in a brief statement.

The CEO had also met the factory and field staff of Blairmont Estate, for the first time. During that meeting, Cheong had expressed that he was “here this afternoon to tell you that I am part of the family and I want to see all of us do well.”

Cheong served as

PSC Chairman for two consecutive years. He was first elected to the post in April 2021 and re-elected in 2022. His immediate predecessor at GuySuCo, Sasenarine Singh, has since been identified as Guyana's Ambassador to Brussels, Belgium.

In April, President Dr Irfaan Ali had said that a new management team would be appointed to run GuySuCo, with the assistance of external partners, coupled with, at the time, the yet-to-beannounced new CEO for the company.

Last year, GuySuCo accomplished a noteworthy milestone by exceeding its yearly sugar output target of 60,000 tonnes. In the sugar sector, 28 per cent growth was recorded last year.

This was as a result of GuySuCo having produced 60,204 tonnes in 2023, compared with 47,049 tonnes in 2022.

With the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government having injected over $17 billion into the sugar industry and currently supporting close to 8000 workers, President Ali has, for some time, made it clear that his Administration would continue to invest in the sector to bring it up to viability.

Between 2016 and 2017, the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change

(APNU/AFC) regime closed several estates across Guyana – an action that displaced more than 7000 sugar workers, who were not only without jobs but who had no means to support their families and contribute to their villages as well as the national economy.

Since assuming office in August 2020, the PPP/C Government has undertaken a slew of measures to revive the sugar sector, and rehired some 2000 of those dismissed workers.

The PPP/C had promised in its manifesto to revive sugar and reopen these estates.

However, after it was found that the assets at Wales Estate were sold out by the previous regime, the PPP/C Government announced plans to establish a Development Authority, where several major industrial operations would be undertaken. Similarly, the Enmore Sugar Estate is also being transformed into an industrial area. Meanwhile, the Government’s efforts to reopen the Rose Hall Estate saw a whopping $1.1 billion being expended last year to have the facility up and running.

A summary of the major works included both civil and structural interventions – including rehabilitation of the cane gantry, pre-milling, milling, boiler and process house roofing. (G3)

GuySuCo CEO Paul Cheong

The meeting held by CEO Cheong with the Cuban specialists last week

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Guyana's commitment to conservation

Today marks World Environment Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and mobilising action for the protection of our planet's natural resources.

Every year, on June 5, people around the globe come together to celebrate the day. This special day serves as a reminder of the critical importance of protecting our planet and promoting environmental sustainability.

Guyana is known as a lush and biodiverse nation and as the world comes together to celebrate this important day, Guyana stands as a shining example of a country deeply committed to environmental conservation.

Guyana is home to some of the most pristine and untouched ecosystems on our planet. Our vast rainforests, expansive savannahs, and winding rivers teem with a stunning array of plant and animal life. From the majestic jaguar to the vibrant macaw, Guyana's biodiversity is unparalleled in its richness and diversity.

However, this natural wealth is not without its challenges. Like many countries around the world, Guyana faces threats such as habitat destruction and climate change. Recognising the importance of preserving its unique ecosystems, the Government of Guyana has taken proactive steps to promote environmental conservation and sustainable development.

At the heart of Guyana's conservation efforts is the protection of its vast rainforests, which cover approximately 87 per cent of the country's land area. These forests not only provide habitat for countless species of plants and animals but also play a crucial role in regulating the global climate and sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Guyana has made significant strides in safeguarding its forests through initiatives such as the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and the creation of protected areas such as Kaieteur National Park and Iwokrama Forest Reserve. These efforts have not only helped to preserve biodiversity, but have also positioned Guyana as a global leader in forest conservation and climate action.

In addition to protecting its natural habitats, Guyana is also committed to promoting sustainable development that balances economic growth with environmental conservation. Our country's vast natural resources, including timber, minerals, and oil, present both opportunities and challenges for sustainable development.

Through initiatives such as the LCDS, from which over 240 Indigenous communities are already benefiting financially, Guyana is working to harness its natural resources in a responsible and environmentallyconscious manner. This includes promoting renewable energy sources, investing in eco-tourism, and supporting community-led conservation efforts.

One of the key pillars of Guyana's environmental conservation efforts is community engagement. Recognising that local communities are the stewards of the land, the Government has been working closely with Indigenous peoples and other stakeholders to develop and implement conservation initiatives that are both effective and inclusive.

From community-based eco-tourism projects to sustainable forestry practices, Guyana's Indigenous communities play a vital role in preserving the country's natural heritage. By empowering these communities and respecting their traditional knowledge and practices, Guyana is able to create a more sustainable and resilient future for all its citizens.

World Environment Day is not just a day for awareness – it is a call to action. It is a time for individuals, communities, and Governments to step up and take concrete steps to protect and restore our ecosystems.

As we celebrate World Environment Day, let us redouble our efforts to protect the planet for future generations. Whether it's planting trees, reducing our carbon footprint, or advocating for stronger environmental policies, each of us has a role to play in building a more sustainable world. Together, let us work hand in hand to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of our planet, not just for ourselves, but for all life on Earth.

Lincoln Lewis’s views are anachronistic and destructive

Dear Editor, In response to my labelling as anachronistic and destructive Lincoln Lewis’s fond reminiscences of violent action against people who appear to be scornful of, and uncaring for, strike action; his suggestion that the same should apply now; and his open encouragement for teachers not to go back to work during formal talks, thereby breaching the GTU’s 1990 Agreement with the Government for the resolution and avoidance of disputes; all while he has been comfortably receiving his guaranteed income through pensions, the goodly gentleman has penned a 9 paragraph letter.

Seven of those paragraphs are dedicated to saying that, in his eyes, I am physically ugly and look old (Sigh…who cares about stupidness like that in this day and age?).

I believe the airing of those views alone makes the argument that the gentleman’s opinions ought to be ignored and rubbished for being anachronistic and useless and without a place in today’s Guyana.

The other two paragraphs fail to make any sensible argument to support his backward, destructive, and unlawful statements that there should be violence, or any action, against people who choose to exercise their right not to strike, and/or that teachers should refuse to go back to work while conciliation is taking place despite the clear 1990 Agreement For the Avoidance and Resolution of Disputes entered into by and between the Union and the Government, which states, “…during the consideration of the matters in dispute under the grievance procedure, there shall be no strike, stoppage of work…, go slow, boycott, picketing, retardation of production, or any other interference with the Ministry’s operation by the Union…”

Lewis goes on to slip into his missive his unfounded view, which is presented as fact, that the education system is crumbling, and that our children are lagging behind their Caribbean counterparts. This was represented in another letter that Lewis wrote in another section of the me-

dia a few weeks ago. In that instance, he had made a vague reference to a World Bank report. Neither the World Bank nor any of us in Guyana were able to find the report which the gentleman had mentioned.

My mistake then was to neglect to respond, figuring that people would understand his missive for what it was: political propaganda.

Guyana leads in Education at the nursery and primary levels in access, quality, and output. At the secondary level, we lag in access, but this won’t be for much longer. There are currently 26 new secondary schools being constructed across Guyana, which ought to bring us very close to universal secondary education. Compare this to the APNU/AFC period in government, when not one single secondary school was started and finished in their term, and for which horror Lewis was notably silent.

In respect to Lewis’s false claims that I shouted rape in Parliament, I invite Mr. Lewis to understand how his libellous propaganda influences,

to their detriment, young people of the Opposition he says he wants to continue his work.

Two years ago, APNU/AFC MP Juretha Fernandes, clearly mimicking her seniors but failing to understand her responsibility to be truthful in the National Assembly, repeated this defamatory rubbish in the said National Assembly. She was given time to bring ANY evidence of this claim. She could not, because nothing of the sort had happened. Indeed, the only time I spoke of rape in the Parliament was when I piloted and passed the Sex Offences Act, thereby repealing a hundred-year-old piece of legislation. This may give Mr. Lewis some indication of just how libellous his claim is. Ms. Fernandes was forced to withdraw, and apologise for, her untruthful claim, and have the same expunged from the record. Mr. Lewis is invited to do the same or face the natural consequences of libel.

Sincerely,

Priya Manickchand Minister of Education

Parade by ranks of the Tactical Services Unit, accompanied by the Guyana Police Force Band, outside the High Court in Georgetown as the Demerara Criminal Assizes opened on Tuesday morning (GPF photo)

Brazil should mirror speed with which Guyana began its exploration – Alexandre Silveira

…clarifies statement on Equatorial Margin

The Minister of Mines and Energy (MME), Alexandre Silveira, told CNN after his participation in CNN Talks, this Monday , that Brazil should mirror the speed with which Guyana began its exploration in the Equatorial Margin.

This comes days after Silveira was quoted in media reports saying that Guyana would be “sucking the riches of Brazil through a straw” by exploring the region.

“What I wanted to say is that Guyana has advanced very quickly in this geological region, which it

shares with Brazil. This unequivocally demonstrates that Guyana has merit in attracting so much investment in these areas,” he is quoted as saying in a CNN Brazil report.

“We even need to reflect on the speed at which Guyana attracted so many investments,” he added. According to the report, when exemplifying opportunities that Brazil has been missing by not exploring the region, the minister stated that the American oil company Exxon closed its geology department in Brazil to invest in the neighboring country.

“What I have been fighting for is so that Brazil can, respecting environmental legislation, advance in the exploration of the Equatorial Margin”, he noted.

At the opening of CNN Talks, Silveira stated that the Lula government wants to seek sustainable development “without exaggeration”. There is division between technicians in the energy and environmental sectors over whether or not to drill in the Equatorial Margin.

“CNN Talks – Next Steps for Energy Transition and Transformation in

Brazil” brings together government authorities, businesspeople and experts in debate on issues related to a topic in which Brazil occupies an absolute prominent position on the global stage.

As a protagonist in the energy transition scenario, the country is in a relevant position in global geopolitics in favor of more profitable and sustainable energy.

However, there is much to be discussed in relation to strategies, challenges and opportunities, such as, for example, our positive points, investments, necessary efforts and competitiveness challenges in the

sector. Mediated and led by journalists Márcio Gomes and Fernando Nakagawa, the CNN Talks brand meet-

ing features an invited audience of businesspeople and players in the segment, gathered at Espaço JK, in São Paulo. (CNN)

Gunmen attack, rob Blairmont businessman and family

Armed bandits on Monday evening at-

tacked the proprietors of a general store at Blairmont, West Bank Berbice in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and carted off millions in cash and jewellery.

The incident occurred at about 19:20h on Monday as Nadir Hussain was about to close his business for the day at Number Four Settlement, Blairmont, West Coast Berbice.

Hussain, who also works at GuySuCo, Blairmont Estate Factory, said he was about to close the gate to

ers were masked and one of them chocked him and dragged him back into the shop.

His wife, Raywattie Persaud, who was also in the yard at the time was targeted by another bandit,

the premises when he was pounced upon by five armed men.

According to the businessman all of the intrud-

I still holler,” Persaud revealed.

According to Hussain, during the robbery, him and his wife were held in the shop at gunpoint where he was gun butted.

“He choke me and I was short of breath and the rest of them proceeded to ransack all of the drawers, shelves and the bags that were hanging; it was plenty cash but all was not one place. The phone cards money, gas money, the shop money all does be separate but within close range… They used the backdoor to get into the kitchen and ransacked the chester drawer, go till upstairs in the wardrobe and carry away all the valuables like cash and jewellery,” the businessman said.

Additionally, a customer, who was approaching the shop, realised what was happening tried to turn away but it was too late for him also.

According to Mohammed Laikraj the man pointed the gun at him and walked up to him and pulled off a gold chain he was wearing at the time.

The said the chain is worth $70,000.

“I told him not to do me anything and I will give him everything I have. I took out my cell phone and gave him and told him that I don’t have money was just coming to buy an energy drink.”

He said the bandit demanded his wallet and he handed it over.

“When he open it and see that it was only $300 in it he handed it back to me,” the man recalled. Laikraj was made to sit in the yard in front of the shop.

The bandits reportedly carted off $3M, an undisclosed amount of phone cards and about $4M worth of jewellery.

Hussain said the perpetrators spent about 15 minutes before leaving.

the front gate and went in the direction of the seashore in Ithaca.

Hussain said when he called the police, he was told that the patrol was attending to another robbery at Shieldstown, which is two villages away.

When the police eventually arrived, searches were made for the suspects in surrounding area with assistance from Region Six Marine Patrol, but the suspects were not found. Investigations are ongoing. (G4)

“They point the gun at me and

off my neck and told me not to holler but

Meanwhile, a neighbour whose dog ran out of the gate as he was returning home, ran towards the shop to get his pet, but was confronted by one of the armed bandits, who was standing guard at the gate. He was told to go and sit and was relieved of his cellular phone.

In the course of the robbery, another customer who went into the premises was dragged into the shop. Hussain said he begged the intruders not to harm that customer, who is considered as a person living with a disability.

The men left through

Brazil's Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira

who pulled her into the shop as well.

lock

Nadir Hussain

The ransacked shop

Raywattie Persaud

CSEC MATHS

“Do not sell your leased land” – Pres Ali

Astrong message has been sent to the residents of Base Road Timehri, Swan Turn, Kuru Kururu, and Banakari (Long Creek), urging them not to sell lease lands granted by the government.

significant fact stating that It would be a better decision if they keep the lands and let it transfer to a next generation.

"I am pleading with you, do not sell your lands! Your land value in the next five years will grow over 2,000%.

giving up long-held ways of living can be challenging.

"I know that giving up disorganisation can be painful, especially if you've been living or squatting in an area for 30-40 years. But without ownership,

President Dr Irfaan Ali, speaking at the recent lease handover event for approximately 400 residents, emphasised this point.

He revealed that this directive comes in response to instances of people transferring and illegally selling their leases, and he stated that measures will be implemented to prevent such actions.

"We have allocated some 4,000 leases across the country, but we are also going to take measures against landowners who have large lots of lands and leases and are doing nothing with them. Many of them are illegally selling the leases. We are going to amend the legislation, strengthen it so that leases cannot be transferred the way they are currently being sold," Ali stated. This announcement was met with applause from the residents.

According to Ali, the lands granted by the government should not be sold.

In this regard, he encouraged residents to not sell it due to the

Don't sell it, keep that value for your children, let them inherit that value," he urged.

Ali acknowledged the pressures that may come with owning land, noting that people might receive offers to buy their property.

"Your land's value is only going to increase. You can use it as collateral at the bank, get a loan, build your home. The value of land in this area is growing exponentially," he explained.

He also pointed out the government’s efforts to bring a sense of normalcy and decency to all communities through investment. He stated that the government is aiming to bring decency to all communities but in order to do so, the government must invest to provide good infrastructure, increase the value of the land, give them ownership, and enhance their net worth.

According to the Head of State, achieving this requires collective effort and a willingness to embrace change.

Ali recognised that

noted. He emphasised that the government does not just want to relocate people squatting along the highway but to provide them with land ownership.

"If you look at the pace of road development on the highway, we want you to become organised as quickly as possible. We have set a deadline for squatting on the highway, but we don't just want to remove people; we want to give them the opportunity to own their own land. We care about people and want to give them the chance to own their land," Ali explained.

you can't take it to the bank, we can't put in infrastructure, and you're not realising the full potential of that land," he

Additionally, he highlighted the significant number of applicants in Circuitville, where only a portion has been regularised.

Currently there are some 15,000 applica -

tions in Circuitville, which is another area that the government wants to address. He pointed out that an estimate of about 60% of those in that spot assessment can be regularised.

“We are ready to work with regularising the 60%. But we also want the 40% to understand that if they are not captured in the

area that can be regularised, we will move them and ask them to work with us," Ali stated.

Through these efforts, President Ali aims to ensure that the land allocated to residents not only remains in their hands but also appreciates in value, thereby providing longterm economic benefits and stability. (G2)

President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at the land lease handover event

A section of the gathering

17 of 224 cases completed during Demerara April Criminal Assizes …6 rendered nolle prosequi

The office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on Tuesday reported that of the 224 cases that were listed to be heard during the Demerara April Assizes, only 23 were disposed of representing a 10 per cent disposal rate.

Of this total, the DPP presented 17 in the Demerara High Court while six were nolle prosequi. The DPP stated that of the 17 matters presented, six were for the of-

fence of Murder, 10 for Sexual Offences and one for Attempted Murder.

There were seven formal verdicts of not guilty, five guilty verdicts by jury, three not guilty verdicts, one guilty plea and one aborted trial. A total of 19 accused appeared in these matters that were heard by Justice Simone MorrisRamlall, Justice Sandil Kissoon, Justice Jo-Ann Barlow and Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. State counsels

Mohamed Muntaz Ali, Rbina Christmas, Marissa Edwards and Taneish Saygon prosecuted 10 matters for Sexual Offences before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall in the Sexual Offences Court.

In three of these cases, the accused were found guilty by jury verdicts. One of them who was indicted on three counts of Sexual Activity with A Child Family Member was sentenced to 20 years on the first two counts and 13 years on the third

count. His sentences will run concurrently.

Another accused who was indicted on two counts for Rape of a Child under 16 Years and Causing a Child under 16 Years to Watch a Sexual Act was sentenced to a total of 28 years imprisonment.

The other accused was charged with the offence of Rape of a Child under 16 years and was unanimously found guilty by a jury verdict. His sentence has been deferred to June 13, 2024.

Development… …from Mama Africa

Even before the first Caricom-Africa Summit was hosted virtually by Kenya back in September 2021, Africa had designated its diaspora – of which it declared the Caribbean to be part - as its SIXTH region.

During the Summit, local Caricom leaders had reaffirmed that designation, with Mottley of Barbados and Rowley of T&T echoing Nkrumah to affirm: “I am not African because I was born in Africa, but because Africa was born in me!”

And it wasn’t just empty rhetoric. Within a couple of years, the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) - which is a member of the AU - had approved a US$1.5 billion funding facility to enable member states of Caricom to develop economic ventures between the two blocks. This has now been doubled to US$3 billion! Afreximbank opened a branch in Barbados, and, in March of this year, made its first facility disbursement. This is a US$6 million Education Rehabilitation Climate-linked Sovereign Term Loan Facility to the Government of St. Lucia!! Might be small, but it’s from small acorns that mighty oaks grow!!

Now, to show this wasn’t a one-shot affair, last year we hosted the second AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF23), and secured a US$500M Afreximbank loan to support the acceleration of our transformative infrastructural development.

Now Afreximbank has worked with the Bahamas to host its 31st Annual Meetings (AAM) - and the third edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF). The AAM’s gonna be held in Nassau from June 12 to 14. Expect more loans!!

Most positively, Afreximbank has announced it’ll make US$500 million available for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It had announced from the beginning that its loans wouldn’t be confined only to governments, since it’s seeking to promote airlinks, tourism, technology transfer, financial stability, food security, industrialization, and cultural ties.

And this is where your Eyewitness becomes very ecstatic - since the loans would be intermediated through the New Hayven Bank, which is headed by a local African-Guyanese banker.

This last nugget is of tremendous import for our domestic politics, since, for years, there have been complaints from African- Guyanese that they’re discriminated against by local banks because of their race. But here we have it: the US$500M is for SMEs - of which, from the complaints – there’s no shortage in the African-Guyanese community; just lack of funding. And here’s where African-Guyanese organizations come in: they can beat the bush for those who’d been turned away from banks and line them up at New Hayven Bank.

This is gonna allow us to judge whether the accusations were factual – since banks of whatever colour would look at loan requests through criteria based on the likelihood of being repaid – with their interest, of course!!

…for GuySuCo

Your Eyewitness was struck by the news snippet that translators are needed for the Cubans who’ve come as advisors to GuySuCo in its thrust for sustainability – and hopefully, generating profits at some point down the road! He figures that this decision must’ve followed the Cubans recommending that canes grown from 5000 hectares at Skeldon be transported on trucks to Albion – forty miles away for “grinding” and processing into brown sugar!! Surely, the Cubans couldn’t have understood the Guyanese who’d described to them the logistical challenges of that transportation proposal!! Something lost in (self) translation?

Your Eyewitness knows firsthand of these challenges, having been forced to communicate with Cuban doctors and nurses not only at the Big Hospital, but at several private ones. Your Eyewitness gets it that we need these professionals, but are they of any use when they’re basically working in the dark with Guyanese patients?? This is literally on matters of “life and death”!!

But then, we’re all gonna be learning Spanish, aren’t we?

…and pleasure

One fella wrote that it’s a sign of the Government mismanaging the economy that two bars for the Yuppy crowd - Cosmos and Outside Bar – had to be shuttered!! Don’t the Government know there’s a protected “right to drink in style”?

Justice Jo-Ann Barlow

Justice Priya Sewnarine Beharry

Justice Simone MorrisRamlall

Justice Sandil Kissoon

Statistics show high number of young people vaping – HoD of Respirology Clinic …as campaign intensifies to outline

To combat the rising trend of smoking among youths, the Health Ministry has launched a comprehensive campaign aimed at educating school children on the dangers of tobacco products, including hookah and e-cigarettes.

The Health Ministry’s initiative is being spearheaded by Technical Officer of Tobacco Control, Dr Sheliza Gopie. Under this initiative, there have been significant engagements with students across the country.

Last year, Dr Gopie and her team visited schools in seven regions, reaching out to over 5,000 students.

The interactive sessions were designed to inform and educate young minds about the harmful effects of smoking, with a particular focus on the often-overlooked dangers of hookah and e-cigarettes.

“They were very interested to learn about all of the effects, the danger of these new devices like hookah, and e-cigarettes. But, one thing that really stood out, was the effects of per-

risks of hookah, e-cigarettes

sons in the home that they look up to. Persons that they see engaging in these activities, are causing them to imitate it and they are doing the same thing,” she said.

While e-cigarettes and vapes are not yet proven to be as hazardous as traditional tobacco cigarettes, Dr. Gopie emphasised that they should still be avoided.

The ministry's stance is clear: prevention is better than cure. By educating children early, the hope is to curb the onset of smoking habits before they begin.

Head of the Department for the Respirology Clinic and Spirometry at the Georgetown Public Hospital, Dr Bibi Waleema Bacchus-Ali has also been vocal about the challenges faced by youths regarding smoking.

“Our statistics are showing that most of our young people are vaping, which is another form of smoking.

There is also another form of smoking which is hookah. All of these forms of smoking can cause addiction at a young age. If you start smoking by 13 or 14, imagine what your heart and lungs will look like at 20 or 25”, she explained.

Dr Bacchus- Ali, stated that by age 40, a person can severely damage their heart and lungs.

The Health Ministry’s initiative aims to create a supportive environment where children are informed and empowered to make healthy choices. Through continued education and community engagement, the ministry hopes to reduce the prevalence of smoking among youths and ensure a healthier future generation. (G9)

Woman found dead in Unity home

DPP recommends murder charge be instated against accused

The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) has recommended murder charges against Khemraj Persaud also called “Pandit” for the murder of 38-year-old Chooromanie Tulsie, whose body was found in her home at Unity, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD) in November 2023.

According to the information gathered, the DPP found enough evidence against the suspect that warrant him being charged with the heinous crime. When contacted on Tuesday, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum stated that he was still awaiting the file from the

DPP Chambers with the advice. Days after the gruesome discovery, Persaud and two of his employees were arrested. At the time of his arrest, his body was covered with scratches and bruises.

However, Persaud who is also a businessman along with the others were released on station bail after the 72-hour detention period had expired. Nevertheless, he was subsequently rearrested after detectives unearthed additional evidence as the probe into the woman’s death continues.

The source has disclosed that the man in custody is known for his frequent visits to

the woman’s home.

In light of this development, Tulsie’s sister, Chandrowatie Persaud had expressed the firm belief that “Pandit” was responsible for her sister’s death. She noted that upon his arrest, his body had several scratches for which he could not account.

“He told the Police one thing to the other…is like when you tell lies to cover up, your story does swing in all directions…Up to now, with all the lies he telling, he can’t say where he got the scratches… From what we know, is my sister put up a fight, and we believe that the marks were from that encounter,” the aggrieved

sister had reported. She had also indicated that the Police had taken DNA samples from the main sus-

pect. “We are waiting on the results of the DNA samples, and I guess when that comes back, the Police will have a clear idea as to who the perpetrator is…” Persaud had told the Guyana Times.

The woman added that the suspect is a close family friend, who has access to the house where her sister was residing.

Tulsie, a former accountant at CAMEX Restaurants Inc, was found stabbed to death in the lower flat of her home at Lot 26 Unity, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. The mother of one had resided at the family house with her 5-year-old son while her mother and brother are re-

siding overseas.

Tulsie had reportedly last been seen alive at about 19:30h on Tuesday, November 22, after she had collected her son from a family member in the same village. The gruesome discovery was made at about 8:00h the following morning in the lower flat of the house.

She was found lying on the ground with a piece of cloth stuffed inside her mouth and a knife stuck in the centre of her throat. She was clad in a multi-coloured ‘night dress’ which was reportedly pulled up to reveal her body. Her fiveyear-old son was subsequently found locked in his room.

Murdered: Chooromanie Tulsie

Lethem resident gets 3 years, fined $450K for narco-trafficking

Forty-four-year-old Sherlon Kissoon of Tabatinga, Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) was on Tuesday sentenced to three years imprisonment and fined $450,000 on a drug possession charge.

Jailed: Sherlon Kissoon

Kissoon appeared before Magistrate Wilson at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court where he was found guilty of having 600 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. Kissoon and a woman were taken into custody on October 19, 2022,

following the discovery of more than two kilograms of cannabis at Tabatinga, Lethem, Region Nine.

It was reported that ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), conducted an operation in Tabatinga, Lethem where they intercepted a motor vehicle bearing registration number, HD 5840, which they searched in the presence of Kissoon and unearthed four parcels of cannabis.

Further investiga-

tion led to the search of a residence at Tabatinga, Lethem during which 14 parcels of cannabis were found.

Kissoon and the woman were taken to the CANU office in Lethem, where the cannabis seized in the motor vehicle was weighed and amounted to 600 grams, while the cannabis found at the premises amounted to two kilograms.

Kissoon was subsequently charged.

Essequibo Coast bus driver shot, robbed

Aminibus driver was on Monday evening shot and robbed of his gold jewellery after returning home from a funeral.

Injured is 42-yearold Charran Ragoobeer called “Pepsi” of Adventure Village, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

Reports are that the robbery occurred at about 22:30h at his residence by a masked man armed with a gun.

Charran Ragoobeer, called “Pepsi”

2 US citizens among 3 intercepted with US$560,000 in gold at CJIA

Two US citizens and one Guyanese were on Monday intercepted with US$560,000 worth of raw gold at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri. They were outgoing passengers on an American Airlines flight to JFK Airport, New York.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) stated that customs officers with the support of officers attached to the Natural Resources Ministry and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), unearthed 240 ounces of pure (raw) gold disguised as silver-plated jewellery.

The gold was confiscated after the three passengers were unable to produce the

required permit and declaration to customs officials.

The GRA in a release to the media disclosed that passengers were arrested and handed over to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) where they will be further interrogated to determine whether they are part of a gold smuggling ring operating out of Guyana.

“Charges are likely to be made under the Customs and Anti-Money Laundering Acts, with the relevant Authorities both here and overseas being informed of the results of the Investigations,” the GRA added.

However, the GRA continues to note the alarming

trend in the efforts to smuggle items including gold, monetary instruments, arms, and narcotics through ports in Guyana.

As such, the authority reiterates that individuals

smuggling/illegal trade is responsible for the drop in gold declarations.

The ministry reminded miners that they are required to sell all the gold they find to licensed gold dealers/traders or to the Guyana Gold Board.

dealing in or contemplating engaging in such illegal activities to desist from doing so or face the consequences.

Back in October 2023, the Natural Resources Ministry announced that an investigation would be launched into whether gold

The Ministry further reminded them that it is illegal to purchase gold without the requisite licence. On this note, the Ministry stated that the relevant agencies will be tasked with ensuring the laws surrounding the selling of gold are upheld and further, an investigation has been launched into the disparity in gold declarations and investments.

The Bank of Guyana (BoG), in its first quarter statistical report for 2023 on

the performance of the economy for the year, had said gold declarations decreased by 5.3 per cent when compared to the same period in 2022.

For 2022, the declaration was 486,415 ounces; in 2021 it was 499,054 ounces; in 2020 recorded 584,291 ounces and in 2019 some 634,905 ounces.

Nevertheless, in light of the recent interception at the CJIA, the GRA again entreats the General Public to report any illicit, unlawful, or smuggling activities on telephone number 227-6060, Extensions 3201, 3204, 3205, 3206, 3211, 3212, or 3408. All information provided will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

Guyana, France to begin programmes in defence, climate change, food security …as Working Group agrees on timelines; follow-up meeting to be held by year end

Collaboration between Guyana and France is fast advancing, with the Joint Working Group that was set up to pursue areas of bilateral cooperation between the two countries meeting for the first time and successfully agreeing on specific programmes in areas such as defence and climate change, as well as timelines.

This was announced by Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud, in a statement on Tuesday. It was revealed that representatives from the Government of Guyana and the Government of France convened the Inaugural Guyana-France Joint Working Group Meeting on May 29, 2024, virtually.

Persaud, who cochaired the meeting, revealed that the discussions were focused on building cooperation in defence, regional security, climate change, food security, infrastructure development, technology and tourism.

A scene from the Joint Working Group meeting, chaired by Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud

World Environment Day Wildlife Commission fosters human interactions with animals

…Commissioner

criticises schools’ curriculum for categorising animals as ‘helpful’ or ‘harmful’

To celebrate its 7th Anniversary the Guyana Wildlife and Management Commission (GWCMC) unveiled a new banner and introduced ambitious wildlife conservation plans.

At the celebration recently, Commissioner Alona Sankar emphasised the importance of this milestone, stating that the new banner symbolises a fresh chapter in their environmental efforts. As part of their anniversary celebrations, the GWCMC aims to educate the public on responsible wild-

life interactions. Sankar highlighted that conflicts between humans and animals are often rooted in human behavior. "It's quite often the human element behind it. Sometimes, human-wildlife conflicts aren't necessarily about the wildlife; sometimes it's just about the humans," she explained She stressed that many conflicts could be resolved by understanding animal behavior.

"You'll find that some conflicts can be solved if humans just communicate reasonably and try to understand each

other's perspectives. Animals are mostly just looking for food and end up encountering humans; it's not necessarily always a case of animals wanting to attack," she said.

Addressing common misconceptions, Sankar noted that people often have the wrong idea that wild animals make good pets.

“Wild animals belong with their groups in a so-

journey with the wildlife commission she remarked, that sometimes people can be wilder than the animals they complain about.

The commission's vision is to secure the future of Guyana's wildlife. Sankar stressed the need for collective effort. "We need everyone on board, all our partners, schoolchildren, their parents, families, and friends. Collectively, we

cial setting, not with humans. When they cause problems in communities, it's not the monkeys' fault, it’s the humans fault."

Reflecting on her seven-year conservation

all have to do our part to ensure the future of our wildlife is secure."

Sankar also criticised the primary school curriculum for categorising animals as either helpful or harmful, which can

lead to negative perceptions.

"One of the topics that I see in the primary curriculum deals with helpful and harmful animals and I sometimes find this topic a bit problematic While some snakes are venomous, not all pose a threat. We need to consider the other side of things," she expressed.

When asked about her futuristic plans for the commission she revealed that the commission is planning to continue to work on the domestic system.

“For our future goals

it would be to continue to build the domestic system, we do have a long way to go and we need to bring it to a very robust point particularly in the monitoring of the offtake it needs to be built up and we need to work on how we will monitor it from the time of harvest to the end user.”

She added, “Once we are able to monitor that carefully we would have the information we need on the numbers that are harvested and then we can make some decisions based on that information that we have.”

Alona Sankar, Commissioner of Guyana Wildlife and Management Commission

12 persons temporarily displaced in Region 9

…as heavy downpours continue

While water levels have been receding across the country areas in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) including Lethem, have experienced some amount of flooding.

According to information from the Civil Defense Commission (CDC) water levels remain high in Region Nine due to above normal rain fall in the area and water draining from nearby hills and mountains.

It was noted that several households and farms have been impacted and at least 12 persons have been temporarily displaced and are currently being housed in shelters.

The CDC, along with re-

gional authorities, are currently working to manage further impacts. Several roads and bridges are inaccessible due to rising water levels and teams are assessing many communities’ region wide.

Last month, several villages in Region Nine were underwater following the prolonged downpours. Some of the most affected villages were Potarinau, South Central Rupununi, Aishalton, Parishara and

Nappi Village. In addition to these villages, several bridges and roads were not accessible to vehicular traffic. One such bridge was the Iwokrama Reserve, approximately 15 minutes away from the Kurupukari Crossing. In addition, the Pirara to Lethem Road was completely underway thus leaving scores of passengers stranded on both sides. In light of these occurrences, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) dispatched a team to the affected areas to conduct thorough assessments.

In addition, it handed over cleaning supplies to the Regional Authorities to be distributed to the residents.

Meanwhile, Regional Democratic Council (RDC) had called for an emergency meeting to discuss and address the challenges faced in the region by rising levels of water. During the meeting, systems were activated to ensure the safety of all residents at this time.

However, the residents are advised to take all necessary precautions against waterborne diseases and floods

and to be vigilant.

“Residents are encouraged to Listen to the local radio station and follow updates on the Office of the Regional Executive Officer, Facebook page, and the Regional Democratic Council Region nine page for accurate information,” the RDC stated.

The RDC staff have been providing free boat transportation to ensure the continued safe passage of Lethem residents following the submergence of the Pirara Bridge.

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

Sheer hypocrisy – “negro”, “house slave”, and

“soup

drinker” all imply inferiority

W

hen an Opposition activist was arrested on a cybercrime allegation - for participating in a public discourse on TV calling for the President, the VP, the Attorney General and the Minister with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service to be hung on the seawall for everyone to see - the police described the gentleman as a “Negro” male.

A well-known Opposition attorney complained to the ERC that the word implied inferiority and was derogatory. A contentious debate has erupted in Guyana over the use of the word “Negro” to describe a black Guyanese citizen.

There is no dispute: the word “Negro” has been in disuse for a long time now, and there is general unanimity that the word is associated with negative connotations for people of African descent. In case anyone would misconstrue my view, let me be unequivocal – the police and all other institutions should remove this word from their guidelines and other documents, and should discontinue using it.

In this context, I commend Mr. Nigel Hughes for highlighting the use of the word in reference to the Opposition activist. I believe that the whole of Guyana should support the removal of this word, and in this case, the police have shown maturity in changing the language they used. The non-utilization of the word in the future by all in Guyana is a positive step forward, certainly adding strength to our “ONE GUYANA” Movement.

I wonder, however, if one of the black PPP activists was arrested and described as a “Negro”, would there have been the same repulsion that the Opposition elements have displayed in the above case? I seriously doubt that anyone in the Opposition would have reacted the same way. I know they would not, because there is ugly hypocrisy when it comes to matters like these.

Incidentally, the word “coolie”, like the word “Negro”, also implies inferiority. Are we now also going to reject anyone being called a “coolie”?

Our black comrades in Guyana are expected to be politically homogenous and to support the PNC, no matter what. Those who dared associate themselves with the PPP have been described by the most heinous names. Those same persons who today are revulsed that an activist of the Opposition was described by the police as a “Negro” have never found the description of black men and women who dared to abandon the PNC and join the PPP as “house slaves” a horrible thing. Indeed, many of the same people today who are beating their chests and screaming out in agony that a black man has been described by the police as “Negro” have themselves called other black men and women “house slaves” and “soup drinkers”.

Ask PM Mark Phillips, Bishop Juan Edghill, Hugh Todd, Oneidge Walrond, Joe Hamilton, Odinga Lumumba, Dr Jennifer Westford and others how many times they were dubbed “house slaves”. The late Guyanese patriot Dr Roger Luncheon was described as the ultimate “house slave”. Not only have these people, like many other black Guyanese, been insulted by the term “house slave”, but they were also serenaded with the term “soup drinker”.

It was wrong of the police to describe the Opposition activist who has been charged with a crime as a “Negro”. It would be wrong for any of us to call anyone of our sisters and brothers a “Negro”. It is equally wrong for any of us to deem another a “house slave” or a “soup drinker” or a “coolie”. Calling other people these names is just as egregious as calling someone a “Negro”.

So, while it is commendable that the attorney in this case highlighted the inappropriate use of the word, and while it is high time our country removes such uncouth language from official documents, we must also highlight the use of other words and terms that disparage people. The time is more than ripe for people in Guyana, no matter what the circumstances, to stop describing their sisters and brothers as “house slaves” and “soup drinkers” simply because they refuse to be the property of a political party.

The word “Negro” became a word implying inferiority during the 1960s, when Stokely Carmichael began the “Black Power” Movement in the USA. In a powerful speech at a rally in Mississippi, in other speeches around America, and in his landmark book Black Power: The politics of Liberation in America, Carmichael argued persuasively that “Negro” implied black inferiority. Gradually, the word “Negro” began to fall into disuse, and the American media totally abandoned the word by the middle 1980s.

Even the US Supreme Court abandoned the word by the middle 1980s. Ironically, civil rights champions such as Booker T Washington and W.E.B Du Bois, in the 1920s, advocated that the word “Negro” be used instead of the word “coloured” because “Negro” was both etymologically and phonetically more appropriate.

Until Stokely Carmichael succeeded in the 1960s, the word “Negro” remained dominant, and was easily used by the great Martin Luther King. The great Civil Rights Leader Jesse Jackson wanted the term AfricanAmerican, but that never gained traction.

There is now agreement that the word “Negro” implies inferiority, and must be disused. In this sense, we are grateful for this debate. But the collateral benefit in this consciousness must be a similar uproar for which we can all unite behind no person should be called a “negro” and no person should be called “house slave” and “soup drinker” simply because they are black and refuse to be part of the PNC. It is hypocrisy, however, when the words are seen as appropriate when applying to people who associate with the PPP, and objectionable when they apply to those who associate with the PNC. Derogatory terms must be rejected from all corners.

17 of 224 cases completed during...

In another five cases, the complainants informed the court that they did not wish to proceed with the evidence and the trial judge directed the juries to return formal verdicts of not guilty.

In one of the other two matters, the accused who was indicted on five counts of sexual offences was acquitted on all counts. The other one case was aborted after the complainant, who had commenced her testimony was ordered by the Court to seek further counselling.

State Counsels Caressa Henry, Joy Williams and Padma Dubraj completed three matters – two for the offence of Murder before Justice

Sandil Kissoon and one for attempted murder with an alternative count of wounding with intent before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

In one of the two trials before Justice Kissoon, the jury unanimously found the accused guilty and as such, he was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 25 years. The accused in the other matter was acquitted by the jury.

The accused in the one matter before Justice Beharry was found guilty by jury verdict on the alternative count and sentenced to 13 years imprisonment. He was ordered to undergo counselling in anger management and

behavioural change while in prison.

Further, Assistant DPP Tiffiny Lyken, State Counsels Taneisha Saygon, Praneeta Seeraj, Simran Gajraj, Rowland and Lowe prosecuted four matters for the offence of Murder which were heard by Justice Jo-Ann Barlow.

In one of these, the accused pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of Manslaughter and was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 30 years. In another two, the trial judge upheld no case submissions and directed the juries to return formal verdicts of not guilty while in the other in which two ac-

cused were indicted together, they were both acquitted by jury verdicts of not guilty for the offences of Murder and Manslaughter.

The six cases nolle prosequi by the DPP were for the offences of Murder, Attempt to Commit Murder and Sexual Offences. In two separate matters, the accused have died while the complainants in the others submitted written statements that they did not wish to proceed with their matters in Court.

The Demerara April 2024 Criminal Assizes commenced on Tuesday 2nd April 2024 and came to an end on Friday, May 31, 2024.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Wildlife Commission fosters human interactions...

Sankar encouraged that members of the public can assist the cooperation in their various efforts by simply being compliant, she expressed that if persons are engaged in any wildlife related activity, they should ensure that they get the necessary permissions or the necessary licenses to do so because when they do that the commission receives the data that they need so that they can analyse and then make some decisions.

Interactions

Meanwhile, in line with Sankar’s commitment to humane wildlife interactions, experts demonstrated safe animal handling techniques to primary school children.

Environmentalist group, Biota Herzoj, dedicated to sustainable practices, was present at the event where they show-

cased their exported animals.

Children had the opportunity to touch and hold various species, including tarantulas, red-foot spiders, baby caimans, and snakes. These hands-on experiences aim to educate young minds about wildlife and foster a deeper understanding of animal behavior.

The leader of Biota Herzoj emphasised the importance of informative sessions that highlight how animals interact, stating that such initiatives are

essential for educating the public about wildlife.

In an interview with Guyana Times, he revealed that Biota Herzoj is shifting its focus from capturing wild animals to breeding them in captivity. "For us at Biota Herzoj, instead of capturing animals from the wild, we're moving towards breeding. This way, we don't diminish wild populations and can even donate animals to local zoos," he explained.

To address the risk of snake bites, Biota Herzoj is working to produce suffi-

cient anti-venom locally.

"We are working towards producing our own anti-venom. With many venomous snakes in Guyana, having locally produced anti-venom would be more cost-effective and beneficial for the country," he added.

He highlighted the high cost of imported anti-venom, noting that three vials of five-milliliter anti-venom currently cost around $1500 USD. Local production could significantly reduce this expense for the population.

The GWCMC remains dedicated to fostering a better understanding and coexistence between humans and wildlife, ensuring a secure future for all species in Guyana. The anniversary celebration, attended by scores of primary school children, featured live interactions with snakes, caimans, turtles,

and tarantulas, reinforcing the commission's vision of securing Guyana's wildlife future through collective effort.

Prior to the establishment of the GWCMC in 2017, wildlife conservation in Guyana was managed by a wildlife division that only regulated the international export of wildlife, however upon, the GWCMC’s inception they have been mandated to not only manage international wildlife trade but also the domestic management of wildlife.

The GWCMC country has received numerous reports and complaints regarding wildlife encounters. The commission has transitioned from merely managing wildlife to proactively addressing and mitigating human-wildlife conflicts.

Throughout its seven-year journey, the GWCMC has worked tirelessly to educate the public, promote sustainable practices, and ensure the harmonious coexistence of humans and wildlife in Guyana.

Essequibo Coast bus...

This newspaper was told that Ragoobeer was entering his yard when the armed bandit pounced on him and fired three shots, one of which struck him to his foot.

Additionally, the suspect snatched the man’s gold chain and rings be-

fore making a quick escape. Ragoobeer was rushed to Suddie Public Hospital, where he is currently being treated for his injury.

During a police investigation, a 9mm spent shell was recovered at the scene. (G12)

Teachers' strike GTU, Labour Ministry to resume talks on June 10

…Union to pursue arbitration if conciliatory talks fail for 3rd time

Representatives of the Guyana Teacher’s Union (GTU), the Labour Ministry and the Education Ministry will meet again on June 10, to resume talks aimed at finalising an agreement on the payment period for paid increases to teachers.

This is the third time the Labour Ministry will facilitate conciliatory talks between the Education Ministry and the GTU since the resumption of strike action on May 9.

During a live social media broadcast, GTU President Mark Lyte said the Union is expecting to have a fruitful engagement with the Education Ministry, noting that the Union is “serious” about the welfare of teachers.

“We have reached out because we believe that this situation must not go on forever, that through dialogue that is one of the ways that mature, responsible people can mend the differences and move to a place where we can start the constructive and meaning full talks,” GTU President Mark Lyte said during a live broadcast on Tuesday.

Monday June 10, will mark 62 days of continuous strike action and the absence of educators in schools across the country.

Lyte said the Union and the government were unable to arrive at terms

of resumption that would be “fair” to educators during their previous engagements, however, if talks fail for a third time the Union will purse arbitration.

49% of teachers

Education Minster Priya Manickchand during a social media broadcast programme last Thursday highlighted some of the issues affecting the education sector, including the teachers strike.

Currently, she said some 49 per cent of teachers are not in schools, based on the fact that as of last Wednesday, 51 per cent of educators turned up for work.

Outside of the strike, she revealed that at any given point, at least 30 per cent of teachers do not show up for work, for varying reasons.

The minister noted that these absences pose a severe threat to learners.

On May 30, General Secretary for the Guyana Teacher’s Union (GTU) Coretta McDonald had confirmed that the Union is prepared to now compromise and begin negotiation on an agreement that would cover the years 2022 to 2025.

According to McDonald, this proposal was present to Government by way of the Education Ministry during conciliations talks, which recently ended in the deadlock.

The GTU has been pressing for its outstanding 2019 to 2023 proposal to be examined and negotiated first before moving on to this year, but it was noted that the agency was always willing to compromise.

Executive members of the Education Ministry and GTU at the meeting

Digicel’s Deep Blue One subsea fibre cable goes live

…will enhance Guyana’s digital integration – Chief Technical Officer

Digicel has announced the activation of its subsea fibre cable Deep Blue One. This significant investment in international submarine capacity, the company said on Tuesday, will supercharge connectivity across the Caribbean and South America, particularly benefiting Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.

Digicel's advanced fibre cable network will provide seamless connectivity to the countries it serves, facilitating uninterrupted communication and real-time data transmission. Deep Blue One also presents an invaluable opportunity to connect offshore oil and gas rigs, supporting the growing energy sector in the Region and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders in the oil and gas industry.

Digicel Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Marcelo Cataldo said, “Subsea fibre has long been the backbone of global connectivity, and Deep Blue One is set to serve as a catalyst for the next wave of economic development in the Region. At Digicel, our fo-

cus has always been on keeping our customers connected to the people and things that matter most; driving economic development in the countries we serve is a key part of that. This is an exciting milestone for us, and we are committed to unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation across the Region.”

Deep Blue One’s redundant pathways and cutting-edge technology ensure reliability, optimal operational efficiency and minimal downtime even in challenging environments. Leveraging the latest technology, this subsea cable network is also designed to accommodate future growth and evolving technological requirements, offering scalability and flexibility to meet industry demands.

Additionally, as part of Digicel’s commitment to minimising its environmental impact, the build-out of Deep Blue One prioritised sustainable practices while supporting the transition towards a greener future, the company said on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Digicel Guyana’s Chief Technical

Officer, Cyril Francis, said “In Guyana, Deep Blue One will enhance Guyana’s digital integration with the rest of the world and will foster the growth of e-services by offering businesses and consumers more choices that better serve their needs. Deep Blue One is well positioned to support Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector with features that enable offshore connectivity to [Floating Production, Storage and Offloading vessels] FPSOs and other platforms. At this juncture of rapid economic development, the launch of Deep Blue One is critical to for the acceleration of Guyana’s transition to a digital economy.”

The link between increased connectivity and improved economic outcomes has long been proven, with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) reporting that a 10 per cent increase in fixed broadband penetration can result in up to 2.3 per cent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, while a 10 per cent increase in mobile broadband penetration can result in up to 2.8 per cent increase in GDP per capital.

Man caught attempting to smuggle phone in powder bottle into Timehri Prison

Police ranks stationed at Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD) have arrested a man, who allegedly attempted to smuggle a cell phone concealed in a sealed powder bottle into the Timehri Prison.

The man of Friendship, East Bank Demerara, visited the prison around 13:50h on Monday, to drop off personal items for a female prisoner.

Police said that while the items were being checked at the self-support area, prison staff discovered the phone hidden inside the powder bottle. As a result, the man was arrested pending charges.

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot recently warned members of the public and prison officers

found colluding in smuggling contraband into the various prison facilities will face the full consequences of the law.

The Prison Head noted that despite the increased monitoring and surveillance at all prison locations, it was observed that several attempts were made by members of the public to smuggle contraband into the various prison facilities.

This, he said, is an offence under Section 53 (1) of the Prison Act, which attracts a fine or a period of imprisonment.

However, he warned that there will be no letup in bringing down corrupt officers, family members, and friends of inmates who are bent on breaking the law. (G9)

Guyana, France to begin programmes in defence...

“The Joint Working Group agreed to a timeline for initiating programmes in the aforementioned areas and to meet in the last quarter of 2024 to evaluate progress. Both delegations committed to the continued engagement aimed at fostering closer relations between the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and the French Republic,” Persaud said.

In addition to Persaud representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the French side was represented by the French Director of the Americas and the Caribbean, from the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Michèle Ramis. The delegations of both countries also included other repre-

sentatives from relevant ministries and agencies.

Back in March, Guyana and France had signed a Communique in which they agreed to establish a Joint Working Group to strengthen collaboration in areas such as defence, climate change, food security, infrastructure, technology, and tourism.

The two countries also benefitted from further interactions when the third Guiana Shield Strategic Dialogue got underway in Georgetown on Monday. The Guiana Shield includes Suriname, French Guiana, Venezuela, parts of Colombia, Brazil and Guyana.

Following the signing of the communique, it had been announced that

France will be opening an embassy in Guyana next year. According to the communique, given their desire to forge closer links, the two countries have decided to write a new chapter by France opening an embassy in Georgetown in 2025. France would be the first European Union (EU) country with this level of diplomatic representation in Guyana.

Additionally, France and Guyana have shared a commitment to democratic values and respect for international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. Both countries are fully engaged in peacekeeping initiatives, the communique had said, adding that both countries are keen to strengthen cooperation to

ensure the security and stability of the Guiana Shield, and combat organised crime in the region.

The two countries are also engaged in efforts to tackle climate-related issues and protect Amazonia, which is a priority for both countries, given their connection to the Amazon region.

It had been agreed at the meeting that a joint working group would be established to identify priorities to deepen cooperation in the areas of defense, climate change, food security, infrastructure, technology, and tourism.

As part of the ongoing security cooperation, Guyana announced the acquisition of maritime patrol assets from France. This is a further illustra-

tion of the commitment of the two sides to strengthen the bilateral relationship.

A letter of intent was subsequently signed last month, with the aim of procuring the vessel, between the Guyana Government and the leading French aluminum shipbuilding company at the Finance Ministry on Lamaha Street, Georgetown.

Based on that letter, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) will soon acquire an Ocean Patrol Vessel (OPV) 190 valued at EU$39.5 million from OCEA S. A.

The inked agreement covered the manufacturing of the vessel, a comprehensive logistics package with spears, and five years of maintenance of the product.

Also, officials of the

FROM PAGE 12

French Development Agency (AFD) were in Guyana in August 2023, and had exploratory discussions with Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on opportunities for partnerships.

Only in February, the Guyanese and French militaries had agreed to conduct increased joint training, with more units of the local military slated to be engaged. At the time, GDF Colonel General Staff, Kenlloyd Roberts and a team of officers welcomed French Captain (Navy) Laurent Martin and his team for a courtesy call at Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

Local Govt Ministry actively tracking regional execution of projects – Parag

With Guyana at the half-year mark for the 2024 fiscal year, Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Sonia Parag has assured that the ministry is keeping a close eye on the various regions to ensure the timely execution of projects.

Since its return to office, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has emphasised the importance of value for money on government projects. The Local Government and Regional Development Ministry received an allocation of $23.4 Billion in the 2024 budget.

Speaking with reporters recently, Parag explained the works currently ongo-

ing under her Ministry, to execute this budget. She was also confident that the Ministry is on track to achieve its goals as the year end approaches.

“We are at the stage of advertising for the final set

of projects that we have. But we’re on track with our capital projects. The regions, we’re also tracking them to ensure they work in a timely manner to have, not only have the projects advertised, but awarded and commenced. So, we have been monitoring all of that. But I think we’re in good stead, coming up to year end,” the Minister added.

The Local Government Ministry’s budget for 2024 includes $5 Billion for the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) programme. The SLED programme was redesigned by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government to allow for

smaller business grants to be issued to a larger pool of people. This is after several members of the former Government were flagged during an audit that found that millions in State funds were in fact wasted.

A total of $760 million was disbursed under the SLED programme between 2015 and 2020, in increments of $115 million, $40 million, $100 million, $150 million, $250 million, and $105 million, respectively.

In April 2023, prominent Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) were fingered in a damning forensic audit report into the former APNU/AFC Government’s SLED programme.

Meanwhile, there are

also allocations in the 2024 budget for subventions to municipalities and Neighborhood Democratic Councils. A sum of $1.2 Billion was set aside to complete works on five community markets- Charity, Hydronie, Leonora, Mon Repos and Parika, as well as to rehabilitate the markets at Corriverton, Kumaka and Suddie. This follows the sum of $417 Million that was spent last year to advance the construction of the five community markets.

The government had also budgeted $1.5 Billion, to maintain the Community Enhancement Workers Programme that has employed well over 2,000 per-

sons. The programme seeks to ensure routine maintenance of community infrastructures, providing much needed support to Local Democratic Organs (LDO). Last year, $1.5 Billion had been expended on the programme.

In addition, the Government had recruited 15,890 persons from regions one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, nine and 10, through the National Pathway Workers Project. These persons were appointed to support the labour force at the local level and provide community services. In budget 2024, $10 Billion was set aside. This follows $6.4 Billion that was allocated in 2023. (G3)

GTU, Labour Ministry to resume talks on...

Proposed 20 per cent for teachers

Prior to this, on day two of conciliation talks held between the Education Ministry and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), a document citing a demand of an interim 20 percent across-the-board salary payment for teachers was presented to the Chief Labour Officer by representatives of the GTU.

According to reports, the Union requested that the increase be paid to teachers before any conciliation regrading timeframe for payment period for salary increases continues.

The demand made by the GTU is aside from monies to be paid to teachers when a payment period for the multi-year agreement is decided upon.

Additionally, the Union requested that the Labor Minister Joseph Hamilton recuse himself from the negotiations process.

Prior to this, both parties had agreed on terms of a resumption agreement and were prepared to sign said document presented by the Union, so that there is no victimisation of either party.

The document stipulated that during the consideration of the matter in dispute under the procedure, there shall be no strike, stoppage of work whether of a partial or general nature, go slow, boycott, picketing,

retardation of production or any other interference with the Ministry's operations, by the Union, nor shall there be any lockout or any other form of interference with the ministry's operations, by the Union, nor shall there be any lock out or any other form of interference by the ministry.

Very bad precedent

During a press conference on May 15, Education Minister Priya Manickchand made it clear that the Guyana Government will not sign off on the Union’s request, nothing that the body is setting “very bad precedent not only for the Guyana government, but for governments across the region”.

It was also explained by the minister that after May 20 the ministry will have to start distance learning which will be instituted in homes to combat the current learning loss.

“We have a standing sacred almost duty to make sure that we look after children and anything that comes in the way of that has to be treated condignly and swiftly with solutions”.

“I hope that the same members in that Union body can take the Union back and bring it to that place (of being reasonable) so that on Monday we end up with a resolution and conciliation agreement where we go to

the table and engage in the conciliation process. If that breaks down then there is a place for arbitration,” the minister had said at the time.

The government has already addressed over 20 issues affecting teachers, aimed at improving their working conditions and overall welfare.

In fact, at the time of the last strike, President Dr Irfaan Ali had reminded that he has already met with teachers across the country and outlined the government’s plan to improve their livelihoods.

On April 19, High Court judge, Justice Sandil Kissoon had ruled in favour of the GTU, and stipulated that teachers’ salaries should not be deducted following their participation in the recent strike.

The High Court had also ruled against government’s decision to discontinue the deduction of Union dues from the salaries of teachers for the GTU.

This came on the heels of the Government’s refusal to negotiate for that salary increases for the period December 2019 to 2023, but instead was ready to do so for a multi-year agreement starting 2024.

Appeal

Attorney General Anil Nandlall has filed an appeal. In the appeal filed on May

22, the Attorney General Chamber stated that the High Court Judge “erred and misdirected himself in law when he having found that the Applicant’s pleadings could not withstand judicial scrutiny, he failed and/ or refused to strike out the pleadings as being frivolous, vexatious, and as disclosing no cause of action… erred

in law in considering issues which were not properly and adequately pleaded or pleaded at all, and which did not fall to be determined by the Court.”

It added, that the judge also erred “…when he held that the ‘no work no pay’ principle was raised by the pleadings as an issue to be determined” and “… when

he found that there is no difference between a right to strike and the freedom to strike, notwithstanding that the Constitution of Guyana, Chap. 1:01 does not provide for a right to strike, rather, the freedom to strike is expressly guaranteed by Article 147 of the Constitution.”

Modi’s BJP loses majority in India

election

shock, needs allies for Govt

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lost its national majority after suffering major losses in key states, marking a dramatic shift in a political landscape it has dominated for the past decade.

The BJP emerged, comfortably, as the country’s single-largest party in the Lok Sabha, the Lower House of India’s Parliament. But with most votes counted after India’s six-weeklong election on Tuesday, the BJP was well short of its performances from 2014 and 2019.

Unlike both those elections, when the BJP won clear majorities on its own in a house of 543 seats, it was poised to end up with 240 seats this time around. The halfway mark is 272 seats.

By contrast, the Opposition INDIA alliance, led by the Congress party,

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

was projected to win more than 200 seats, significantly higher than exit polls had predicted. Released on June 1 after the final phase of India’s election cycle, the exit polls had suggested that the BJP would outdo its 2019 tally of 303 seats.

Modi and his party are still likely to be able to form India’s next Government — but will be dependent on a clutch of allies whose support they will need to cross the 272-seat mark. The BJP

with its allies, in a coalition known as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), was projected to win around 282 seats.

“India will likely have an NDA government, where the BJP does not have a majority on their own, and coalition politics will come into real play,” said Sandeep Shastri, the national coordinator of the Lokniti Network, a research programme at the New Delhibased Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS).

On Tuesday evening, Modi claimed, in his first comments after the results were declared, victory for his NDA coalition. “We will form the next government,” he said, speaking to thousands of supporters gathered at the BJP’s party headquarters in New Delhi. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Local Government Minister Sonia Parag

DAILY HOROSCOPES

21-April 19)

21-July 22)

23-Aug. 22)

23-Sept. 22)

23-Oct. 23)

24-Nov. 22)

23-Dec. 21)

Pay attention to money matters and your health. Keep tabs on what others do and on anything that might limit your progress. Put your energy to good use.

A change will improve your mindset and push you in a sensible direction. Determination coupled with innovative ideas will lead to peace of mind and some serious accomplishments.

Shift into high gear and don’t look back. It’s time to bypass anything that slows you down. Your enthusiasm and smart moves will wow some and make others jealous. Do your thing.

You’ll have the right mix of creativity and courage to make headway. Dismiss any jitters you’re feeling and proceed with confidence. Don’t succumb to anger if someone gets in your way.

You’ll dazzle the crowd if you step into the limelight. Partnerships will flourish if you apply lessons learned from past mistakes. Look on the bright side and let curiosity take the lead.

Don’t hesitate to take a pass if something feels wrong. Question the motives of others before you commit to something questionable. Keep your personal information safe and your life stress-free.

Put more time and effort into your surroundings. Learn as you go, and don’t be afraid to ask direct questions. Opportunity is apparent if you are bold.

Refrain from following someone else; if you want to change, devise your plan and turn it into a reality. Give someone a friendly nudge. Financial gain is favored.

Someone with charisma will grab your attention, but before you get involved, consider their agenda. A little research will go a long way in protecting you from heartache or financial setbacks.

22-Jan. 19)

Embrace opportunities and dismiss setbacks. Don’t waste time or energy on people or situations that don’t favor you. Be firm, say no when necessary and ease stress.

20-Feb. 19)

Make a move or change because you want to, not because someone is coercing you. Put your energy into home, family and opportunities. Do what’s necessary to seize the moment.

Set guidelines and boundaries before someone takes advantage of you. It’s up to you to implement the changes necessary to make your life easier. Listen carefully.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES PICKLES

T20I World Cup 2024…

Netherlands open their account

– as Pringle et al stifle Nepal

Three-wicket

hauls from Tim

Pringle and Logan van Beek, backed up by Max O’Dowd’s patient half-century, got Netherlands over the line in a nervy chase in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2024 tournament against a spirited Nepal in Dallas.

It was a rude welcome for Nepal in their first T20 World Cup in a decade, with the Netherlands

Pringle, van Beek, Paul van Meekeren and Bas de Leede all getting among the wickets.

In reply, Nepal put up a fight, but dropped a couple of crucial chances at key intervals.

Dallas turns blue and red, but Orange holds sway

Netherlands’ stranglehold

Rohit Paudel, the youngest captain at a T20 World Cup at 21 years old, kept his composure, but lost partners at a steady rate. He pumped Kingma for a four over covers in the seventh over, but Pringle came back in his second over to remove Anil Sah, his attempted sweep only going as far as deep backward square leg.

bowlers putting on a fine show and bowling them out for a mere 106 in 19.2 overs.

Nepal, though, managed to squeeze the Netherlands batters in the middle overs, and took the chase into the 19th over. O’Dowd, however, held his own with an unbeaten 54. He rode his luck, and made sure he took his side over the line by six wickets with eight balls to spare.

Earlymorning rain and overcast conditions delayed the toss by 30 minutes, and Netherlands captain Scott Edwards had no hesitation in bowling, after winning the toss. The bowlers backed up their captain’s decision, with

The Grand Prairie Stadium can seat 7000, but the vocal Nepal fans made it feel a lot bigger, as they flocked in nice and early in getting behind their team. Overcast conditions assisted the Netherlands seamers, and they got their first wicket through left-arm spinner Pringle, whose decision to keep giving the ball flight paid off as Aasif Sheikh’s thick outside edge found short third in the second over.

Kushal Malla hammered van Meekeren for four runs over mid-off, but fell three balls later while trying to repeat that shot. He was deceived by the slower offcutter, and spooned the ball straight up.

Bas de Leede then got rid of Dipendra Singh Airee, caught at slip as Nepal slipped to 53 for 5 after 11 overs.

Paudel was busy during his 35 off 37, but ultimately perished in giving Pringle his third wicket. Karan KC and Gulsan Jha added 22 off 17 balls for the eighth wicket - the second-highest stand of the innings - to push the score past 100. Van Beek

those shackles with two back-to-back fours, but run-scoring remained slow. Nepal bowled 19 dot balls in the powerplay as Netherlands reached 36 for 1 after the first six overs.

Things got tougher for the Netherlands in the middle overs with the Nepal spinners coming into the equation. Airee conceded just a single in his first over after the powerplay, before taking out Vikramjit with a length ball that beat the batter’s attempted slog

Nepal conceded just 48 runs in the middle overs (6 to 15), and made the Netherlands fight for every run.

Composed O’Dowd steers

Netherlands home

When Edwards fell cheaply, it felt like the Netherlands’ chase could go astray, but O’Dowd brought all his experience into play. He curbed his natural aggressive instincts and made sure he kept his end secure, even when Netherlands went 40 balls without a boundary, between the 12th and 18th overs.

O’Dowd had a huge slice of luck when Paudel spilled a straightforward chance in the 18th over at long-off. He was on 40 at the time, and the Netherlands still needed 18 off 17, but the dropped chance seemed to ease his nerves. In the penultimate over, with Netherlands requiring 13 off 12, he smashed Abinash Bohara for a four and a six to reach his 13th T20I fifty. De Leede then finished the chase with a four through covers, triggering a sigh of relief in the Netherlands camp, and securing two crucial points.

Pacer van Beek then struck with his first ball, angling a length ball sharply back into Kushal Bhurtel and catching him plumb in front.

Fast bowler Vivian Kingma also found big movement as the Nepal batters found putting bat to ball an arduous task. In the first six overs, Nepal played and missed 17 of the 36 balls (47.22%), which is the highest for any team in a men’s T20I (for which ESPNcricinfo has ball-by-ball data available). They hit five fours, but could manage only three singles and a two in the first six overs, as they managed only 29 runs in the powerplay for the loss of two wickets.

ended the innings with a two-in-two.

Nepal apply the choke

Getting early wickets was the need of the hour, and Nepal managed that, with Sompal Kami getting rid of Michael Levitt with his second ball, caught by the cover fielder.

Both Kami and Karan kept the bowling tight, conceding only four runs in the first 15 balls. Vikramjit Singh broke

sweep and caught him in front. An over earlier, Vikramjit was dropped at deep backward square leg by Kami, but he couldn’t cash in.

O’Dowd and Sybrand Engelbrecht tried to steady the ship in a 28run stand, before a run out brought about the latter’s end. O’Dowd struck a straight drive back at Kami, who expertly deflected the ball back onto the non-striker’s stumps and caught Engelbrecht

Nepal (20 ovs maximum)

BATTING R

Kushal Bhurtel lbw b van Beek 7

Aasif Sheikh †c Kingma b Pringle 4

Anil Sah c van Beek b Pringle 11

Rohit Paudel (c) c O’Dowd b Pringle 35

Kushal Malla c O’Dowd b van Meekeren 9

Dipendra Singh Airee

c van Beek b de Leede 1

Sompal Kami b van Meekeren 0

Gulsan Jha b van Beek 14

Karan KC c Kingma b de Leede 17

Sagar Dhakalnot out 0

Abinash Bohara c & b van Beek 0

Extras (lb 4, w 4) 8

TOTAL 19.2 Ov (RR: 5.48) 106

Fall of wickets: 1-10

(Aasif Sheikh, 1.6 ov), 2-15

(Kushal Bhurtel, 3.1 ov), 3-40

(Anil Sah, 7.4 ov), 4-52

(Kushal Malla, 9.4 ov), 5-53

(Dipendra Singh Airee, 10.4 ov), 6-66

(Sompal Kami, 13.2 ov), 7-84

(Rohit Paudel, 15.6 ov), 8-106

(Karan KC, 18.5 ov), 9-106

(Gulsan Jha, 19.1 ov), 10-106 (Abinash Bohara, 19.2 ov) •

DRS

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Vivian Kingma 4-0-23-0

Tim Pringle 4-0-20-3

Logan van Beek 3.2-0-18-3

Paul van Meekeren 4-0-19-2 Bas de Leede 4-1-22-2

Netherlands (T: 107 runs from 20 ovs)

BATTING R Michael Levitt c Airee b Sompal Kami 1 Max O’Dowd

short.

Tim Pringle gave Scott Edwards an early breakthrough

Logan van Beek swung out Kushal Bhurtel for 7

Vikramjit Singh steadied the chase after an early wicket

Tertiary Basketball League

2024…

LTI, GSA, GTI continue winning ways

The 2024 edition of the Tertiary Basketball League continued at the National Gymnasium on Sunday, June 2nd, with Linden Technical Institute (LTI) securing the upset of the tournament, and the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) and the Government Technical Institute (GTI) continuing their winning ways.

The opening game of the night saw the Guyana School of Agriculture, with their ability to convert baskets, emerging victorious against a hitherto winless New Amsterdam Technical Institute by the scoreline of 57-41.

Shannon Wilson, with 22 points and 20 rebounds, led the GSA from the jump ball, and an all-round performance from his team saw Vivian Bowling contributing

continued to be persistent with the ball, putting same through the hoops to score 23 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists; while Lerone Joseph, with 11 points and 11 rebounds, proved to be pivotal in the LTI win.

The tournament will continue next Sunday, June 9th, from 17:00hrs with the final round-robin games determining the semi-finalists.

10 points and Dennis Prince 8 points.

Timothy Rampersaud did not miss out on the action for NATI, as he contributed 16 points while Jared Dainty contributed 10 points and 12 rebounds.

The second game of the night saw Government

Technical Institute getting the better of Upper Corentyne Combined (UCC), against whom they secured a 25-point victory, with the scoreline reading 62-37.

Peter Langevine, with his ability to penetrate the UCC defenses, scored 16

points, while Jamal Mercier contributed 14 points and Martin Edwards contributed 11 points.

Federick Lashley was on show for the UCC. He demonstrated his class by contributing 24 points, and he received support from Aaron King with six points.

Linden Technical Institute, with their quick play, managed to upset defending champions University of Guyana (UG), who failed to put the ball through the nets. LTI’s 28-point victory left the scoreline reading 70 -42.

Kemol Grimmond

Blue Water Shipping Girls U15 Tournament… Round of 16 set for June 22

The Guyana Football Federation-Blue Water Shipping Under-15 Girls’ National Secondary Schools Championship has completed the preliminary round, conducted in nine regions and in Georgetown.

Sixteen teams from nine regions across the country are now preparing to face off on June 22 and 23 at the Federation’s National Training Centre in Providence, East Bank Demerara.

On June 1, the final four schools to progress to the second round were determined.

Charity Secondary, winners of Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Tucville Secondary, champions of South Georgetown District; and President’s College and Ann’s Grove Secondary, respective-

ly winners and runners-up of Region 4 - East Coast Demerara group, secured their spots and joined the line-up with Region One (BarimaWaini) group champions Waramuri Primary and runners-up Santa Rosa Secondary; Westminster Secondary, top team for Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); North Georgetown winners Queen’s College and runners-up New Campbellville Secondary; and Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) group winners Bush Lot Secondary and runners-up Woodley Park Secondary. New Amsterdam Secondary, who topped Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); Bartica Secondary, winners of Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); St. Ignatius Secondary, group cham-

pions of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo); and Mackenzie High and Christianburg Wismar Secondary, the winners and runners-up from Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), are also included in this second round.

GFF President Wayne Forde has commended all schools that participated in the first round for their dedication to the sport, and has congratulated the teams advancing to the Round of 16.

“I commend all the teams, along with their coaches, teachers, and fans, for their dedication throughout the first round of the national tournament over the past few weeks. Congratulations to the 16 schools who progressed to the next stage. This competition was organised to ensure girls have equal opportunities to learn and understand the rules of the game, and to compete in a structured environment,” he declared.

“I have witnessed many standout talents, and have enjoyed the level of sportsmanship displayed over the last few weeks. We look forward to more healthy competition in the upcoming rounds,” Forde added.

This tournament, the largest girls’ competition in Guyana, kicked off on

May 4 with more than 70 games being played over the weekends. That first stage concluded on June 1.

Coordinator Lavern Fraser shared that the teams have been given two to three weeks to rejuvenate and focus on their strategies for the fixtures at the end of June.

“We have had a few packed weeks of matches in the various regions, with each team playing several games per day, allowing every player to gain experience on the field. Many girls played football for the

Association (WFA) President Andrea Johnson added that she has been “delighted to see the smiles and hear the laughter from the girls on the various teams.

“The tournament provides a learning environment while allowing the girls to develop a love for the game. I have already seen some future stars in the making,” she has said.

She encouraged the schools that did not progress to the Round of 16 “to continue practising and learning the fundamen-

first time, while others had some on-field experience; but all were competitive and dedicated, representing their respective schools well,” she declared.

Women’s Football

tals of football”, and said, “Congratulations to the top 16 schools, and I am excited to see what the upcoming round will bring from these talented young players.”

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The Government Technical Institute team The Linden Technical Institute team

Scenes from the Blue Water Shipping Girls U15 tournament

New GPC Inc Chess Championship… Khan in lead after first four rounds

The NEW GPC Inc-sponsored National Open Chess Championship commenced last Saturday at the National Racquet Centre with a thrilling four rounds of play. The ten top contenders are meeting each other in a round-robin format with a time control of 90 minutes plus 30-second increments after the first move.

After four of nine rounds played over the weekend, defending National Chess Champion, Candidate Master (CM) Taffin Khan, had chalked up three wins and a draw. In an eventful tournament to secure the highest local chess accolade, Khan demonstrated his dominance on the chessboard from the very start. He defeated formidable junior players Kyle Couchman and Sachin Pitamber, while 2023 main challenger Loris Nathoo also went down in a Round Three clash. Khan’s half-point came from a draw with Ethan Lee in Round One.

After the customary handshakes at the start of every tournament match, all ten candidates went into battle mode, displaying hostilities on the chessboard. An upset victory by 14-yearold Kyle Couchman over FM Anthony Drayton was the main event of Round One. The teen defeated his opponent in less than 40 moves.

With the white pieces, Couchman opened with the Queen’s Gambit, while Drayton responded with the Slav Defence. An intense struggle soon ensued, as Drayton launched a combination attack with his Knight, Queen, and Rook that led to a stronger position, leaving Couchman's King exposed to checkmate.

Couchman pushing his Queen pawn on move one. Khan created complications for his opponent with the Benko Gambit, sacrificing a pawn to accelerate his forces for battle.

The match ended after a marathon 60 moves, with Couchman's cornered monarch unable to stop Khan's advanced pawn heading for promotion and checkmate.

Ogando, Archibald set to light up Men’s 100m at AP Invitational

…Guyana, Dominican Republic, T&T in 4x100m Relay

The Men’s 100M event at the upcoming Aliann Pompey Invitational meeting is set to be a thriller, with the Dominican Republic’s Alexander Ogando and Guyana’s Emanuel Archibald being set to headline what is sure to be a nail-biting event on June 22nd at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC) at Edinburgh, Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

But the junior saved his monarch by retaliating with an attack involving his Queen and his minor pieces, and a mating net that led to Drayton's resignation on move 37.

New senior player Ethan Lee drew his match

Young Pitamber suffered the same fate as Couchman in Round Four in an endgame battle. Khan's far advanced pawns with his King and Rook in the fight created a losing position for Pitamber, who resigned his King after 41 moves.

Most of the matches were decided in the final endgame phase. The kings also emerged with assistance from other fighting

with defending champion Taffin Khan in Round One in an endgame battle that lasted almost 70 moves. Both players were down on time and were deadlocked with opposite-coloured Bishops, pawns, and both Kings poised for action. But neither side was prepared to take further risks with an even position, and a truce was agreed.

CM Ronuel Greenidge and reigning Junior Champion Keron Sandiford also drew their Round One encounter, while Loris Nathoo suffered his first loss in the championship to Justino Da Silva.

Nathoo recovered in Round Two with a win over Ethan Lee in a thrilling endgame. The veteran player marched a passed pawn to promotion, forcing his much younger opponent's capitulation.

Defending champion Khan's Round Three duel began with young

units to secure victory.

Sandiford, Drayton and Greenidge are all on 2.5 points after the four rounds, while Nathoo and Couchman are on 2 points. Justino DaSilva and Ethan Lee are each on one point.

The remaining rounds will continue on June 7th, 8th and 9th, after which a champion would emerge. Whether the title remains with Khan, or someone else is crowned National Champion, is yet to be determined.

The Guyana Chess Federation has extended thanks to NEW GPC Inc. for sponsoring the event. The GCF also wishes to thank the National Sports Commission (NSC) for facilitating the tournament at the National Racquet Centre.

Games are being livestreamed on lichess.org and view.livechesscloud. com under the guidance of Technical Manager and Chief Arbiter John Lee.

With the AP Invitational being staged just eight days before the June 30 qualification deadline set by World Athletics, track and field fans are in for a treat, as each athlete would be aiming to meet the 10-second qualification standard.

The AP Invitational is part of the World Athletics Continental Tour, and its return marks the staging of this dynamic track and field event for the first time since 2019.

Ogando has a personal best time of 10.09 seconds in the 100m event, clocked in 2022. He has not yet competed in the 100m this season, focusing instead on the 200m event, in which he has recorded a time of 20.26 seconds. His 200m personal best is 19.91 seconds, a performance that has earned him gold at the 2022 Central American and Caribbean Games and has set a new national record for the Dominican Republic.

The 24-year-old Ogando has also found success in the mixed relays, teaming up with Lidio Andrés Feliz, Marileidy Paulino and Anabel Medina to finish second (3:10.21) at the Tokyo Olympics, behind Poland (3:09.87) and ahead of the USA (3:10.22).

Ogando again linked with Feliz, Paulino and Fiordaliza Cofil to win the 4x400m mixed relay at the 2022 World Championships in a time of 3:09.82, beating the Netherlands (3:09.90) and the USA (3:10.16).

For Archibald, Guyana’s Pan Am Games bronze medallist, the AP Invitational could be a crucial opportunity to achieve direct qualification for the Paris Olympics. This season, Archibald competed in French Guiana, where he recorded a time of 10.13 seconds to win the men’s 100m event, equalling his personal best.

Also featuring in the men’s 100m at the AP Invitational is St Kitts and Nevis’s former national champion Jason Rogers, who was the starter in his country’s third-place finish in the men’s 4x100m relay at the 2011 World Championships.

Rogers partnered with the legendary Kim Collins, Antoine Adams and Brijesh Lawrence to run 38.49 seconds, but it was the Jamaican quartet of Nesta Carter, Michael Frater, Yohan Blake and Usain Bolt that set a (then) world record time of 37.04 seconds to win gold. France finished second with a

time of 38.20 seconds.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Kyle Greaux, better known for his 200m ability, will also compete in the 100m. Greaux secured a second-place finish with Trinidad and Tobago in the 4x100m relay finals at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where Guyana finished fourth. He was also part of the T&T 2017 World Relay Championship silver medal team and featured on the team that finished second in the 4x100m relay at the 2019 Pan Am Games.

Akeem Stewart and Arinze Chance are the other Guyanese athletes competing in the 100m at the AP Invitational. The event would also include top Dominican Republic athletes Yohandris Andujar Melbin Marcelino and Carlos Palacios; while Ronal Longa (Colombia) and Alaba Akintola (Nigeria) are also set to compete.

Organiser Aliann Pompey has said she is looking forward to the men’s 100m match-up, especially considering that the women’s event would feature Guyana’s national record holder Jasmine Abrams, Trinidad and Tobago’s Michelle-Lee Ahye, and Namibia’s 100m record holder Beatrice Masilingi.

Rising Sun Turf Club postpones Gymkhana …New date to be announced

The Rising Sun Turf Club has postponed its Gymkhana which was set for June 16, due to unforeseen circumstances. The organizing body of the Gymkhana is apologising to sponsors Jumbo Jet and AJM for the inconvenience caused, and is extended apologies to horse owners.

A release from the organizers has said the Gymkhana will be held after the August 11 Guyana Cup. This Gymkhana, once held, would be an annual event, ensuring the younger horses and owners get involved and win big in Guyana’s horse racing.

With reliable sponsors in Jumbo Jet and AJM, the

Gymkhana, which would cater for lower classes of horses, would have on offer lucrative prize money and bragging rights. Meanwhile, horse owners and trainers who had already paid entry fees for the now postponed Gymkhana would be refunded by the organizers. This postponed Rising Sun Turf Club Gymkhana has a feature race for G Class and Lower horses, the winner of which would be rewarded with G$300,000. Other races for the Gymkhana are the J Class and Lower, Three-yearold Guyana-bred winner of one race and maidens, the L Class race, two-year-old

trial, L Class Non-winner/ low earner and L Class Low Earners of the day and farm horses. The Gymkhana organizers will keep fans, horse owners and trainers updated in relation to future developments. Horse racing fans will have action on July 14 at the Port Mourant Turf Club, when the Caricom race meet takes center stage. That event will be a preview and preparation for the marquee horse racing event, the Guyana Cup, which would be run off on August 11 at Rising Sun. New horses are expected to feature in the Jumbo Jet-organized Guyana Cup horse meet.

FIDE Master Anthony Drayton

Alexander Ogando

Action ongoing in the National Open Chess Championship

Guyanese quartet in Windies

Test squad for England tour

Cricket West Indies (CWI) Senior Men’s Selection Panel has unveiled the 15-member squad that is set to tour England for the RichardsBotham Series, a threeTest affair which starts at Lord’s on Wednesday, July 10, 2024.

In that 15-man group, there are four Guyanese players who have been selected: Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Kevin Sinclair and Tevin Imlach, with open

these two rivals date back to 1928, when the West Indies made their first trip to England. The teams now compete for the RichardsBotham Trophy, named in honour of West Indies legend Sir Vivian Richards and England great Lord Ian Botham.

Captain Kraigg Brathwaite will continue his leadership role, with fast bowler Alzarri Joseph again serving as vice-captain. The team

arrive in England on June 23, for a training camp at Tonbridge School ahead of a 4-day warm-up match at Beckingham, commencing on July 4.

CWI Lead Selector, the Most Honorable Dr. Desmond Haynes, has expressed confidence in the squad’s composition. “The squad has been shaped with both experience and emerging talent, ensuring a strong balance as we face the challenge of playing in English conditions,” he has said.

consistent performances and hard work,” he added.

“We are confident that this blend of seasoned players and emerging faces will perform admirably against England,” he disclosed.

Young fast bowler Jayden Seales has been returned to the squad, having missed the last Test series against Australia due to injury; and experienced all-rounder Jason Holder has earned a recall, after having made himself unavailable for the last tour.

“Over the past year, our red-ball programme has continued to develop. Following our victory in the last Test in Australia in January, it

There is also a first international selection for 23-year-old opening batsman Mikyle Louis, a former West Indies U19 International, who scored 682 runs in his debut First Class season for the Leeward

tain Alzarri Joseph, Alick Athanaze, Joshua Da Silva, Jason Holder, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Shamar Joseph, Mikyle Louis, Zachary McCaskie, Kirk McKenzie, Gudakesh Motie, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales and Kevin Sinclair. These players will be supported by the following team management unit:

Head Coach - Andre Coley

Team Manager - Rawl

Lewis

Assistant CoachesJimmy Adams and Rayon Griffith

Assistant CoachShaun Tait

Physiotherapist - Dr. Denis Byam

Strength & Conditioning CoachRonald Rogers

Island Hurricanes at an average of 48.71. Should he debut for the West Indies in England, he will become the first Kittian to wear the famous maroon Test cap.

The West Indies 15-member Test squad reads: Captain Kraigg Brathwaite, vice- cap-

Team MasseuseFitzbert Alleyne

Team Analyst - Avenesh Seetram

West Indies’ last Test match ended in resounding victory in Australia earlier this year. All selected players have since been involved

in the West Indies Championship, which concluded in April and was won by the Guyana Harpy Eagles.

Isai Thorne, the 19-yearold fast bowler, will travel with the squad as a development player, following impressive performances in his debut First Class season, in which he took 31 wickets at an average of 16.29 in his first eight matches.

The West Indies are the current holders of the Richards-Botham Trophy following the 1-0 Home Test Series win in March 2022.

Richard-Botham Test Series match schedule:

Thursday July 4 to Sunday July 7: 4-day warmup match at Beckingham

Wednesday July 10 to

Sunday July 14: 1st Test match at Lord’s

Thursday July 18 to Monday July 22: 2nd Test match at Trent Bridge

Friday July 26 to Tuesday July 30: 3rd Test match at Edgbaston.

Kevin Sinclair

Shamar Joseph

Tevin Imlach

Gudakesh Motie